Autism Conference with Heidi Bowden

Autism by Heidi Bowden:
Strategies for Working with People with Autism Spectrum Disorders

After having such a positive experience with Cynthia Lord’s presentation, I had high hopes for learning more about Autism from Heidi Bowden. This presenter has a daughter Addy who has Autism. She discussed many tools that can be used to help children at home and in the classroom who have Autism. Some visual tools she discussed was a schedule of their day, something they can see and touch themselves. She also talked about pictures and written words, using the internet at home, as well as errand or mood strips to show them what they will be doing and how they feel. She conveyed many different techniques on how to get through to these children.

Heidi wanted to show the room that helping children to accomplish something, rewarded them and encouraging them is the best interaction then can have. She also discussed that all children learn differently and you don’t know how they will function with each tool, services, or other activities. Heidi explained that many schools have expectations of children with disorders or disabilities and we need to break through those to look at each individual child. Children with Autism don’t do things on purpose; they simply can not help it. Patience is something that is very valuable. She also explained that working with parents and school administration is one way to help the child and yourself to cope and overcome each situation. Every child will like something different and so you must work to the child, reinforce good behavior and help eliminate the bad. Heidi explained that the most important tool is consistency. Take one day at a time and take baby steps. The most important thing I gained from Heidi is to “seize the moment”. Do all you can to help someone and that is the greatest tool and gift you can give to them.